Episode 1

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Episode 1 of 4

Duration: 1 hour

The first of a revealing observational documentary series that follows what happened when a global windfarm developer tried to build a windfarm in the heart of some of Devon's loveliest landscape.

In this episode, passionate developer Rachel Ruffle puts forward plans for the Den Brook Windfarm. Its nine 120-metre-high turbines will transform the landscape in a shallow valley that lies four-and-a-half miles from Dartmoor National Park. One of her allies is farmer Martin Tucker, who stands to gain hugely if the development goes ahead. Set against them are the local action group, including Martin Tucker's cousin, which mobilises to fight the proposals, claiming the turbines are visually intrusive and ineffective. And there is Mike Hulme, an increasingly disillusioned local resident who starts off on good terms with Rachel, but whose conscience is torn between the need for action on climate change, and his fears that turbine noise could blight the countryside's peace and tranquillity.

Before the local authority West Devon Borough Council votes on its decision, there are acts of vandalism, angry scenes and tears of frustration and disappointment.

More episodes

See all episodes from Windfarm Wars
  • Windfarm Wars: Filming the renewable energy debate in Devon

    Windfarm Wars: Filming the renewable energy debate in Devon

    Producer Jeremy Gibson on filming both sides of the lengthy local battle: "When I convinced the BBC to commission Windfarm Wars, call me naive, but I had no idea it would take seven years of my life to deliver.

    Read and comment on Jeremy's post on the BBC TV blog

Credits

Series Producer
Jeremy Gibson
Executive Producer
Adam Alexander

Broadcasts

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